Christmas Traditions and Customs

For most of us, the holidays are comprised of Christmas holiday celebrations and traditions. Many family traditions are handed down from generation to generation.

Christmas Decorations

Without a doubt, one of the most important holiday customs is the family Christmas tree. Year after year, trees are decorated with different kinds of ornaments and various decorations and are carefully stored once the season is over. In some families ornaments are kept from generation to generation which brings childhood and pleasant memories for family members.

Most houses are decorated with garland, mistletoe, and wreaths. Some families go all out and put up Christmas lights outdoors.

In some countries Christmas tree is different. For example, in Italy, the Christmas tree is called ‘Italian Ceppo’, a pyramid shaped structure made of wood often called the tree of light, decorated beautifully with fruit, nuts and presents. Geor­gian "Christmas tree", the chichilaki, is made of wood shavings. It sits in a window, set against a sunlit snowscape over a traditional Georgian balcony. It is surrounded by seeds, beans, Georgian sweet called Churchxela (made with nuts, fresh grape juice (thickened with flower) and dried on air hanging on long sticks) and preserved fruits. It is an ensemble of hope.

Christmas Dinner

A traditional Christmas dinner includes stuffed turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and a variety of other dishes. Some families have ham or roast goose instead of turkey. Favorite desserts include mince pie or pumpkin pie, plum pudding, and fruitcake. Eggnog is a popular Christmas beverage in many homes.

Christmas Parties

Parties are the usual Christmas Tradition. It's a time for family members and friends to get together, exchange gifts, and celebrate the holiday season. There are various Christmas dinner traditions in different countries.

Stockings

It doesn't matter if there is a fireplace in the house or not. Every child hangs a Christmas stocking out for Santa and his elves to fill up with goodies and candy canes. The bigger the stocking is the better. This is usually the first thing checked on Christmas morning when the children wake up, full of anticipation.